Patheon to Acquire Banner Pharmacaps

Patheon Inc. has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with VION N.V., a global manufacturer of foodstuffs and ingredients based in the Netherlands, to acquire Banner Pharmacaps ("Banner"), a specialty pharmaceutical business dedicated to the research, development and manufacturing of unique gelatin-based dosage forms.

Banner is the world's second largest pharmaceutical business focused on delivering proprietary softgel formulations for over-the-counter, prescription and nutritional consumer products, with four manufacturing facilities, significant proprietary technologies and products, and leading positions in some of the industry's fastest-growing product categories.

Banner is headquartered in High Point, N.C., with additional research labs and manufacturing facilities in the Netherlands, Canada and Mexico.

James C. Mullen, Patheon's Chief Executive Officer, stated, "The acquisition of Banner advances our strategic plan put in place in 2011, fully aligning with Patheon's intent to be the leader in oral dosage development and manufacturing services. The transaction provides us with a well-balanced portfolio of proprietary products, state-of-the-art facilities with enhanced capabilities, as well as an expanded geographical presence. We believe our visibility within the industry will be further strengthened as we pass the USD 1 billion-revenue mark."

"Patheon shares many interfaces with Banner's field of activities and offers opportunities for further growth over the coming years. The sale of Banner is a strategic transaction for both organizations," said Peter Beckers, chairman of the board of directors, Banner Pharmacaps, and executive board member, VION N.V.

Beckers continued, "It allows VION to focus on its core business of food and ingredients, while aligning Banner with a global company that is known for its focus on quality and customer service in the pharmaceutical industry. We are convinced that this transaction represents the best outcome for Banner's customers, partners and for our people, who will benefit from the scale opportunities of being a part of an organization such as Patheon."

The acquisition will be structured as a purchase of all of the shares of the entities through which Banner conducts its operations, for a purchase price of U.S. $255 million, subject to working capital and other adjustments.

The acquisition is subject to applicable regulatory approvals and other customary terms and conditions, and is expected to close by the end of calendar 2012.

In support of the transaction, Patheon has received commitments for financing that will be applied to fund the acquisition and associated expenses, retire existing debt, and used for general corporate purposes. Such commitments are subject to customary terms and conditions.

Researchers at McGill University have discovered a new, more environmentally friendly way to make ketones, an important chemical ingredient in pharmaceuticals. While ketones are found in a wide range of useful chemicals, they are commonly prepared through energy-intensive, multi-step technologies that create significant chemical waste.